Chora Sfakion

Chora Sfakion is a small village, 72 km from Chania, in a cove between the mountains where the terrain is wild and harsh with the Lefka Ori towering behind. Hora Sfakion is famous as one of the centers of the resistance against the occupying forces of both the Venetians and the Turks. The bulk of the White Mountains to the north, combined with the rocky beaches on the south, helped the locals keep their freedom against all invaders. Hora Sfakion is also worth visiting for the small Venetian fortress built there in 1526 as part of a defensive system of towers and fortresses later taken over by the Turks. Nowadays, Chora Sfakion is best known as the last stage of the excursion from the Samaria Gorge. Each year thousands of tourists arrive by boat from Aghia Roumeli and enjoy a meal and the traditional cuisine, especially the famous sfakiani pita (cheese pie) in one of the many pleasant restaurants before leaving by bus for Chania, Rethimnon or Iraklion. For those wishing to enjoy southern Crete longer, there are many hotels in the village.